Porcellio ornatus high yellow

Technical Sheet for Porcellio ornatus “High Yellow”

1. General Description

Common Name: High Yellow Isopod
Scientific Name: Porcellio ornatus “High Yellow”
Family: Porcellionidae
Order: Isopoda
Class: Malacostraca
Phylum: Arthropoda
Kingdom: Animalia

2. Morphology and Appearance

• Coloration: Porcellio ornatus “High Yellow” is characterized by a predominantly bright yellow body with black and grey patterns. The intensity of the yellow may vary, but it is noted for being vibrant.
• Size: Adults reach a length of between 1.5 and 2.2 cm.
• Body Shape: Dorsally flattened, with a segmented and rigid exoskeleton.
• Antennae: Two pairs of antennae, with the first pair being short and the second pair longer and more sensitive.

3. Distribution and Habitat

• Geographical Distribution: Native to Mediterranean regions, especially southern Europe.
• Natural Habitat: Commonly found in moist and shady environments such as under rocks, logs, and leaf litter. Prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter.

4. Behavior and Ecology

• Diet: Detritivore, primarily feeds on decaying plant material but can also consume fungi and dead animal matter.
• Activity: Primarily nocturnal, seeking shelter during the day to avoid dehydration.
• Reproduction: Reproduction is ovoviviparous. Females carry the eggs in a ventral pouch until they hatch.
• Life Cycle: Development from egg to adult takes approximately 3 to 4 months. Longevity can reach up to 2 years under favorable conditions.

5. Captive Care Conditions

• Temperature: Optimal range between 20°C and 25°C.
• Humidity: Requires high humidity, preferably between 70% and 90%.
• Substrate: Suitable substrate composed of a mix of soil, coconut fiber, and dried leaves. It is important to keep it slightly moist but not soaked.
• Feeding in Captivity: Can be fed a varied diet including fresh vegetables, fruits, dried leaves, and occasionally specialized isopod food available in pet stores.
• Shelter: Provide plenty of hiding material such as bark, pieces of wood, and flat stones.
• Compatibility: Peaceful and sociable, can be kept in groups without aggression issues.

6. Health and Special Care

• Disease Prevention: Maintaining proper humidity and avoiding the accumulation of mold and fungi is crucial to prevent fungal infections.
• Health Observations: Require a clean environment. It is important to remove uneaten food to prevent health problems.
• Common Problems: Dehydration is the most common issue due to moisture loss in the environment.

7. Human Interaction

• Handling: It is recommended to handle them carefully, as although they are harmless, they can easily become stressed.
• Educational Use: Ideal for educational projects due to their easy care and interesting behavior.